Things to do in London this Christmas

Get into the Christmas spirit by having a browse through London's top holiday happenings this winter.

Halloween has come and gone, trees have lost their leaves, scarves and hats are being pulled out of closets and pumpkins and witches hats have been replaced by mince pies and advent calendars in the supermarkets... Christmas has officially arrived!

Whether you are a London local, or planning on taking a trip this season to complete some Christmas shopping, take a break from the growing chaos of department stores and underground stations and try out one of these magical ideas below to really get into the spirit of Christmas...

1. Winter Wonderland

Photo credits: Instagram @hydeparkwinterwonderland

Christmas in London hasn't truly arrived until Hyde Park transforms itself into a wonderfully wintery world of its own... Yes, the legendary 'Winter Wonderland' is open to the public from the 22nd November. This is the most magically festive spectacular which offers all things Christmas. With FREE ENTRY to the park, anyone who is anyone will spend their December days or nights weaving their way through rollercoasters, sparkling lights, mulled wine and more! It is easy to lose track of time here as there is something exciting to see or do at every corner you come to. Head to the German Beer House for live music and laughter with friends, or try out the House of Horrors and one of the many park attractions if you are looking for a thrill. For something more laid-back, wander around the food and drink stalls, take a look at the clothes and accessory stalls for some last-minute shopping or try your luck at some of the competitions that crop up around the park. Peter Pan on Ice, Ice-sculpting workshops and even home to its own Comedy Club, the opportunities are endless in the magical world of Hyde Park at Christmas.

Stay at Smart Hyde Park Inn if you want to be within walking distance from the fair. Trust us, when you've experienced your fair share of rides, and the effects of the German beer starts to wear off, the first thing you'll want to do is to wrap up warm and get a good nights sleep... just wait until you see the cosy pod beds available!

2. Ice Skating

Get your skates on and prepare to slip and slide on some of London's finest outdoor ice rinks! Popping up all over the place this Winter, the city becomes home to the most spectacular Christmas-themed ice rinks in the world.

Head to the Natural History Museum and whizz around the gigantic Christmas tree surrounded by fairy lights. With a steady flow of music, food and drinks every day up until 21:00, it's a perfect location to spend a festive day with the family or a romantic evening underneath the city's twinkling lights. Make sure to book your session beforehand to guarantee your place, or buy tickets from the box office on arrival. Wait your turn in the Café Bar which overlooks the rink, or take a trip there after to warm yourself up with some tea and toasted marshmallows.

Photo credits: nhm.ac.uk

Another favourite of ours is located in the spectacular courtyard of Somerset House, which is annually converted into a glittering holiday paradise. Skate Lates host special music nights so you can sing along to your favourite tunes whilst on the ice, and there is the option to really push the boat out and enjoy some irresistibly delicious festive treats for two at the Fortnum's Lodge... mince pies & mulled wine, champagne & chocolate fondue or wine & cheese. Tickling your tastebuds? We thought so.

Photo credits: somersethouse.org.uk

Stay at Phoenix Hostel for a newly-renovated option in the heart of London. Walking distance from many tube stations, this hostel is perfect for those who want to dot all over the city during their stay... it comes complete with its own downstairs bar so you know where to head for that night-cap!

3. Southbank Winter Market

Stroll along the Southbank of the River Thames and enjoy the innumerable festivities occurring just a stone's throw from the London Eye. The Southbank Centre offers something for everyone this season, from circus performances and theatre shows, to international street-food traders and innovative cocktail bars. Search for The Bar Under The Bridge for a warm-hideaway serving camembert and croque monsieur or check out the pop-ups offering waffles, pancakes and more if you have a sweeter tooth. If you're in the mood for a party, why not host one of your own in a private igloo overlooking the River!

Stay at St Christopher's Inn London Bridge to get a traditional stay in the city, located only a few steps away from the Market, and offering very generous food and drink discounts on-site.

4. Oxford Street Christmas Lights

Photo credits: Instagram @oxfordstreetw1

Now, if you find yourself heading to the capital this Winter it would perhaps be near on impossible to find a street that isn't lit up by christmas lights in some way or another. However, if you really want to be impressed, we suggest heading to Oxford Street to see how the big boys do it! Enormous, glistening baubles stretch as far as the eye can see, and they really are a Christmas must-see. Join the crowds in some last-minute hectic christmas shopping, and pop in to nearby the department stores Liberty and Selfridges to see them decked out to their finest.

Stay at Generator Hostel London if you want to be right in the centre of it all. From here all the best shops and outdoor festivities are easily accessible, and it is consistently voted one of London's best hostels.

5. The Spirit of Christmas

Photo credits: Instagram @spiritfairs

Finally, if you are absolutely nuts for all things Christmas, then this Spirit of Christmas Fair at Olympia is right up your street. Usually up and running around mid-November, it is the perfect place to be inspired by decorations and to make a start on all that shopping... of course whilst stopping every now and then to sample all the incredible food and drink at the stalls offering tasters to everyone who walks by. From Toffee Vodka to Christmas Pudding, this fair has an unrivalled collection of 800 boutique retailers and designer-makers, which means Christmas can be found literally under one roof.

Stay at St Christopher's Inn Hammersmith to be located very near to the fair. This hostel has all you need to enjoy a super-festive stay, complete with money-saving tips and local knowledge on the best ways to get around the city. If you are travelling from overseas, it is very convenient for those landing at Heathrow Airport.

We hope you have enjoyed reading this article and you have been inspired to make the most of these seasonal spectaculars. Have a browse over our list of low-cost accommodation in the city, wrap up warm and get out there to make the most of your Christmas celebrations this year!